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RAC: Tighter restrictions on private wheel clamping needed

The RAC is calling for an end to private firms that are charging people extortionate fees to have their vehicles freed after being clamped.

It claims that this practice is illegal as the fees charged are incredibly high in some cases and has said that it is prepared to take the matter to the law courts.

Those who park on private land - which could constitute anything from pub car parks to derelict lots - are vulnerable to the whims of the clampers, the RAC believes.

Barrister Dr Chris Elliott said: "The Home Office is proposing a new licensing regime for private clampers, but it is arguable that, if the release fee is unreasonable, their actions are incompatible with the Human Rights Act."

The RAC was founded in 1897 and now has around seven million members. It also offers services such as car insurance, breakdown cover driving lessons and legal services.